Since decentralization began in the early 1980s, social responsibilities have extended beyond the national government to departments and municipalities. Municipalities carry out these duties through a key public institution: the Communal Center for Social Action (CCAS). What exactly does the CCAS do, and how does it support seniors?
The CCAS is a public administrative establishment operating at the municipal level. It is governed by a board of directors and led by the mayor. Multiple municipalities can collaborate to form an Intermunicipal Center for Social Action (CIAS). Nationally, CCAS organizations are united under the National Union of Municipal and Intermunicipal Social Action Centers (UNCCAS).
As the primary instrument for municipal social policy, the CCAS implements local initiatives, especially for vulnerable populations. It manages recipients of social benefits within the municipality and assists with applications for social aid.
Positioned as a frontline observer of local social needs, the CCAS excels at assessing population requirements and shaping effective municipal social strategies.
The CCAS promotes preventive actions, simplifies access to social rights, and fosters solidarity. It collaborates closely with public and private social partners in the community.
Under the Code of Social Action and Families, CCAS duties include mandatory and optional tasks. It provides optional social aid like cash benefits, in-kind support (e.g., emergency relief, interest-free loans, food parcels), and handles legal social assistance requests such as medical aid, Active Solidarity Income (RSA), and elderly support. Services include welcoming applicants, offering information, guidance, and ongoing support.
Seniors and people with disabilities are central to CCAS efforts.
The CCAS conducts a census of all seniors in the municipality (covering identity, age, address, etc.), enabling coordinated social services, particularly for those needing medical, financial aid, or facing fragility.
To help seniors age in place, CCAS can establish senior-focused services like welcoming day centers for leisure and cultural activities to combat isolation, or affordable meal programs. Home meal delivery is another common offering, with pricing scaled to income levels.
For home care, CCAS informs seniors about available aids (financial or material) for services like home help or home adaptations. It also assists with applications for benefits such as the Personalized Autonomy Allowance (APA), Solidarity Allowance for the Elderly (Aspa), or disability supplements.
Prevention is a major focus: CCAS offers health-related information and programs for seniors, addressing issues like fall prevention and cardiovascular risks at the local level.
Optionally, CCAS may manage facilities for dependent seniors, including Ehpad nursing homes, public retirement homes, or independent residences. These often provide dining access to nearby seniors, daytime care for those with autonomy loss or conditions like Alzheimer's, and evening meals.
